How to Try an APQS Longarm Quilting Machine Before Buying

Updated

You can test-drive an APQS longarm quilting machine in two ways: attend an APQS Road Show event, where the company brings its machines to locations across the country, or visit an APQS retailer near you. Both options let you handle the machine and quilt on it before committing to a purchase. If you already know which model you're considering, a retailer visit is usually the faster route; if you want to compare several machines side by side, the Road Show schedule is worth checking first.

Option 1: APQS Road Shows

APQS describes its Road Show crew as traveling across the country to bring longarm quilting machines directly to quilters. The company publishes a schedule on its site.

How to use it:

  1. Go to the Road Show schedule page on apqs.com.
  2. Find an event near you and note the date and location.
  3. Attend and spend time at the machines — this is your chance to compare models in one place.

Why it helps: Handling several machines in the same session makes differences in maneuverability and balance easier to feel than reading specs alone.

Option 2: Visit an APQS Retailer

APQS offers a retailer locator so you can find a longarm retailer near you and "take a quilting machine for a test drive today."

How to use it:

  1. Open the Find Retailer tool on apqs.com.
  2. Search for a retailer in your area.
  3. Contact the retailer to confirm which models are on the floor and whether you need an appointment.
  4. Test-drive the machine and ask about the models you're weighing against each other.

A retailer visit is also useful if you want to see a specific model rather than a general lineup.

What to Evaluate During a Test Drive

The point of testing is to judge how a machine actually feels, not just what it lists. APQS frames its machines around "maneuverability, handling and reliability," so those are reasonable things to focus on:

  • Handling and balance — how the machine moves across the quilt, especially in curves and corners.
  • Maneuverability — whether the carriage responds the way you expect at your normal quilting speed.
  • Throat space — relevant if you plan large quilts; for example, APQS notes that one model adds four extra inches of throat space over the standard Millie.
  • Controls — APQS highlights "simple, easy-to-use controls" on some models, so try the interface yourself.
  • Computerized quilting — if you're considering Quilt Path, ask whether a demo unit with the system is available, since it uses a touch pad to design, lay out, and run the quilting.

Matching the Test to the Model

APQS markets "a quilting machine for every quilter," and the lineup spans different priorities. Use the test drive to check the machine against your own needs rather than a generic ranking:

If your priority is… Test-drive focus
Top-of-the-line balance of handling and reliability The flagship model's feel at speed
Extra throat space for larger projects How much room you actually have under the machine
Simple controls and lightweight handling Whether the controls feel intuitive after a few minutes
A machine that feels made for you Overall comfort during a longer practice pass
Smallest footprint Whether the machine plus table fits your space
Automated computerized quilting Quilt Path's touch pad workflow from design to finished pass

Practical Notes

  • Confirm ahead of time which models a retailer has available, so you don't travel for a machine that isn't there.
  • Bring or ask for fabric and batting to quilt on — a test drive is more informative when you're running real stitches.
  • Ask about warranty and support while you're there; APQS states its machines are backed by a Lifetime Warranty and Lifetime Customer Service.
  • If you can't reach a Road Show or retailer soon, the APQS blog includes hands-on content such as oiling your longarm, a quick thread-change tip, and a free quilt pattern — useful for understanding ownership, but not a substitute for handling the machine.